News-Letter

As a dedicated fan of The Sopranos, I've become unfazed by the brazen female characters and their ravenous sexual appetites. Conversely, my mom is still disgusted by the erotically charged females. Recently while watching, she asked me with a look of confusion and nausea, "Are there really women who just love sex that much?"

I quickly affirmed her suspicions, while thinking of Hopkins girls who regularly partake in one-night stands or foursomes. The next question I couldn't avoid -- "Are you one of them?"

This led me to think, "What's wrong with liking sex?" It (usually) feels great and releases me from my depressed, tense Hopkins mind set. The problem isn't exactly sex; rather it's the fact that I'm female.

I'm a modern woman and by definition should be exerting my independence and waging war against the evil axis of testosterone. The women of today are expected to stand up for their rights, demand equal pay and strive for success in their occupations. They are tough, defensive and unyielding. Society's depiction of a modern woman is anything but sexy.

Since the women's rights movement in the `60s, modern culture now expects every woman to be a feminist. A girl who isn't wrestling with masculine corporate America is considered to be committing an injustice to her sex and society as a whole. At the same time, feminists aren't embraced with welcoming arms.

The simple word "feminist" elicits a defensive response because of the typical image of harshness and aggression. This was even depicted in Borat when he meets with a group of feminists. As the audience expected, the women were hostile and judgmental. Many women shy away from the label because of its negative connotation.

Ironically the characteristics of a feminist do not coincide with the ideals of femininity. The stereotypical feminist is in fact not feminine. It appears that in order to be treated like an equal women must be "masculinized." Rather than being forced to change our persona, we should be celebrating our own qualities. We can be powerful and strong without abandoning sexuality and beauty.

The 21st-century female should be able to embrace both sexuality and femininity without feeling bipolar. She shouldn't have to waffle between the two roles. Both can exist without contradiction. This ideal woman can exert her independence while still taking pride in her

sensuality. Sex can play an important role in her life, but she will not accept being treated as an object. The key to achieving this is her self-image. If she allows her sexuality to be the core of her existence, she'll easily lose any appreciation for intelligence, athleticism or leadership abilities. The modern woman must always expect respect from those she accepts as her partners. Her sexuality is a blessing and should be appreciated by those she shares it with.

The discussion of equal rights is usually limited to salaries, parenting and political power. Sex is another important topic in this debate. In the collegiate environment, it's more acceptable for guys to sleep around than girls. In the spirit of equality, girls should be allowed to experiment sexually and enjoy the pleasures of intimacy without being criticized.

For both men and women, sex can be considered a sport. The game of pursuit and capture is exhilarating and in the end everyone comes out a winner. As long as the sex is safe and consensual, it's completely acceptable.

Furthermore, the perceptions of how men and women have sex are also misleading. Men don't always want to have rough, violent sex. They can be tender, soothing and emotional. Similarly, women can crave hot, passionate naughtiness. Men and women aren't confined to these stereotypes of screwing versus making love. These primal urges of violent sex arise in both genders. It's natural to act wild and ravenous at times. No one should be judged for an overzealous approach to making love.

The same logic can be applied to masturbation. Women can enjoy pornography and do in fact pleasure themselves. It's simply too taboo to discuss even between girls. A true feminist should be proud of her body despite its size, shape or color.

Masturbation can be an intimate experience enjoying the beauty and sensuality of one's own body. It's a universal pleasure that everyone has the right to enjoy. I'm sure Mary Pat Clarke wouldn't support that new amendment.

So who are these modern sexy feminists? The Pussycat Dolls certainly are hot. If you disagree, watch the "Buttons" video: they're on fire, literally. And they do sing a song entitled "I Don't Need A Man," but I'm not going to encourage girls to admire this female pop group.

This ideal image is difficult to pinpoint because essentially it is a difficult persona to create. It requires complete confidence and self-respect while still retaining a sense of morality and class. There should be a sense of freedom but a respect for limits. The overly confident girl at the local bar who sleeps with any guy of her choice simply because she can is not a true feminist.

The modern woman isn't afraid to attract attention with her body. She can wear miniskirts and master the art of flirtation, but still can take on the engineering of a bridge or run for state governor. She loves to be desired but will not give it away too easily. She sets goals for herself and is destined for success. A sexy feminist will strive to rule the world but she'll be damn well sure to look hot while doing it.

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